Medications for Hypertension

The information provided here is meant to give you a general idea about each of the medications listed below. Only the most general side effects are included, so ask your doctor if you need to take any special precautions. Use each of these medications as recommended by your doctor, or according to the instructions provided. If you have further questions about usage or side effects, contact your doctor.

Many different medications are available to lower your blood pressure. Your doctor will discuss the options with you and help you select a medication plan to meet your needs. Many times more than one drug is needed to control blood pressure.

Blood pressure medications must be taken daily. Do not stop taking your medication on your own. If you develop side effects, notify your doctor.
You may be able to get the dose adjusted or have another drug prescribed to help minimize side effects while controlling your blood pressure.

Hypertension
can be controlled, not cured. Taking your medications as ordered is vital to controlling this condition and reducing the risk of complications. It may be necessary to take the medications indefinitely.
Be sure to discuss any questions or problems with your doctor.

Prescription Medications

Diuretics

Common names include:

Hydrochlorothiazide

Indapamide

Spironolactone

Diuretics help the kidneys get rid of excess water and sodium by increasing urine production. Lower fluid levels in your blood can reduce pressure on your blood vessels. These medications are sometimes referred to as “water pills.”

Possible side effects include:

Lightheadedness

Frequent urination

Beta blockers

Common names include:

Atenolol

Propranolol hydrochloride

Metoprolol

Nadolol

Betaxolol

Acebutolol

Pindolol

Bisoprolol

Beta blockers reduce demands on the heart by reducing the rate and force of contraction. Less force from the heart will lead to lower blood pressure.

Possible side effects include:

Lightheadedness and/or fainting as a result of low blood pressure

Slow heart rate

Fatigue

Beta blockers may not be the first-line treatment for hypertension.

Angiotensin-converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors

Common names include:

Benazepril hydrochloride

Captopril

Enalapril maleate

Quinapril

Perindopril

Ramipril

Trandolapril

Fosinopril

Moexipril

Lisinopril

ACE inhibitors relax the blood vessels and lower blood pressure by blocking the production of a hormone that causes the blood vessels to constrict.

Possible side effects include:

Dry, unproductive cough

Headache

Lightheadedness and/or fainting as a result of low blood pressure

Angiotensin II Receptor Antagonists

Common names include:

Irbesartan

Losartan potassium

Valsartan

Candesartan

Olmesartan

Telmisartan

Eprosartan

Angiotensin antagonists relax the blood vessels and lower blood pressure by shielding the blood vessels from a hormone that causes the blood vessels to constrict.

Alpha-beta Blockers

Common names include:

Labetalol

Carvediol

Alpha-beta blockers lower blood pressure by decreasing nerve impulses to the blood vessels. They also slow the heart rate and decrease the force of contraction. This decreases the workload of the heart and helps lower the blood pressure.

Possible side effects include:

Lightheadedness and/or fainting as a result of low blood pressure especially when standing up

Fatigue

Nausea

Centrally Acting Nervous System Drugs

Common names include:

Clonidine

Methyldopa

Nervous system drugs lower blood pressure by controlling nerve impulses and relaxing blood vessels. These drugs can be taken orally. Clonidine is available through a skin patch.

Special Considerations

Take your medication as directed. Do not change the amount or the schedule.

Do not stop taking them without talking to your doctor.

Do not share them.

Ask what the results and side effects are. Report them to your doctor.

Some drugs can be dangerous when mixed. Talk to a doctor or pharmacist if you are taking more than one drug. This includes over-the-counter medication and herb or dietary supplements.

Plan ahead for refills so you do not run out.

Note: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and naproxen can elevate blood pressure and make your medications less effective. Talk to your doctor about other medications you may be able to take.

When to Contact Your Doctor

Contact your doctor if you:

Develop side effects to any of the medications

Check your own blood pressure and it regularly runs higher or lower than the target blood pressure range set by your doctor

How is high blood pressure treated? National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
website. Available at:
http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/hbp/treatment.html.
Updated August 2, 2012. Accessed February 28, 2014.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.